Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and packed with protein, this Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta is exactly what your dinner table needs. With hearty ground beef, nutrient-rich high-protein pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition.

This dish is inspired by the desire to create a protein-packed, wholesome pasta dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. The creamy sauce, made from light cream cheese and sour cream, hugs each strand of pasta while tender pieces of bell pepper and onion add bursts of freshness. Fresh basil at the end elevates the dish with its aromatic herbaceous notes, making every bite irresistible.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, post-workout meals, or family-friendly lunches, this recipe comes together in just over 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dinner that feels indulgent yet leaves you satisfied without the post-pasta slump. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or a family looking for something hearty yet wholesome, this creamy beef pasta is sure to become a go-to recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High-protein goodness – Packed with lean beef and protein-rich pasta.
• Quick and easy – Minimal prep, one skillet for cooking the sauce.
• Creamy comfort – Indulgent flavors without heavy cream.
• Balanced and wholesome – Includes vegetables, herbs, and protein.
• Customizable – Swap pasta type or add vegetables for variation.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 4–5 servings, perfect for a family meal or meal prep.

Pasta

• 10 oz (300 g) chickpea flour pasta – High-protein pasta helps keep you full and adds a subtle nutty flavor. You can use any high-protein or whole-grain pasta.

Protein & Veggies

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing vegetables and adding flavor.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced – Fresh and slightly crunchy.
• 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef – Protein-packed base for the sauce.
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed – Adds savory aromatics.

Seasonings & Sauces

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – Earthy and aromatic.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Warm, smoky notes.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Mild kick.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies tomato flavor.
• 1 cup (250 g) tomato sauce / passata – Forms the base of the creamy sauce.

Creamy Components

• ½ cup (125 g) light cream cheese – Adds smooth creaminess without excess fat.
• ½ cup (125 g) light sour cream – Enhances tangy richness.

Garnish

• 6–8 fresh basil leaves – For finishing and brightening the dish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander (to drain pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife & cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the chickpea flour pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add crushed garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Ground Beef

1. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet.
2. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no longer pink.
3. Season with oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

4. Build the Creamy Tomato Sauce

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
2. Add the tomato sauce (passata) and mix thoroughly.
3. Lower heat and add cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
4. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a small amount of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce.
2. Toss gently to ensure all pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Tear fresh basil leaves and stir them in just before serving for freshness and aroma.

6. Serve

1. Portion into bowls and sprinkle extra basil if desired.
2. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetable boost – Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spicy version – Add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese swap – Use reduced-fat mozzarella or goat cheese for a different creaminess.
• Protein alternatives – Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option.
• Vegan twist – Use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream, with lentils instead of beef.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This creamy beef pasta is savory, tangy, and rich with a gentle herbaceous aroma. The creaminess of the cheese and sour cream balances the acidity of the tomato sauce, while basil adds a fresh, aromatic finish.

Drink pairings:

• Light red wine such as Pinot Noir
• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber slices
• Iced green tea for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option

Side dish ideas:

• Steamed or roasted green vegetables (broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus)
• Crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or whole-grain rolls

Nutritional Overview (Approximate, per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 8g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on pasta type and portion size.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep ingredients in advance – Dice vegetables and measure sauces before cooking.
• Storage – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating – Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore creaminess.
• Freezing – Freeze cooled pasta in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of high-protein pasta?
Yes! Traditional wheat pasta works, though protein content will be lower.

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and reheats nicely for lunches or dinners.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap cream cheese and sour cream for vegan alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

4. How can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper, cayenne, or hot paprika.

5. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes. Use a larger skillet or pot and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep vegetables	5 min
Cook pasta	10 min
Sauté veggies & garlic	5 min
Brown beef & season	8 min
Make sauce & combine	5–7 min
Toss with pasta & serve	2–3 min
Total Time	~35 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve family-style in a large bowl with extra basil on top.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Mediterranean Twist – Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
2. Creamy Mushroom Beef Pasta – Sauté mushrooms with the onions and peppers for an earthy flavor.
3. Low-carb version – Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles instead of pasta.

Ingredient Spotlight: Chickpea Flour Pasta

Chickpea pasta is high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta.

Tips:

• Cook until al dente to maintain firmness.
• Rinse after boiling to reduce stickiness.
• Combine with flavorful sauces like this creamy beef mixture to maximize taste.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Always reserve some pasta water; its starch helps bind sauce to pasta.
• Tear fresh basil by hand to preserve essential oils.
• Use low-fat dairy to keep the dish creamy without excess calories.
• Brown beef well for added depth of flavor.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove, adding a little pasta water or milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	18g
Fiber	8g

Dietary Notes:

• High-protein, gluten-free if using certified pasta.
• Vegetarian adaptation possible with plant-based protein.
• Nut-free.

Conclusion

This Creamy High-Protein Beef Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. Packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and finished with fresh basil, it’s a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your body. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, post-workout meal, or family-friendly lunch, this recipe is simple, versatile, and undeniably delicious.

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